''Furthermore, when partners manifest the commitment to their relationship and family, by solemnizing that commitment elsewhere, through one of life's most significant events, and come to New York, whether returning home or setting down roots, to carry on that commitment, nothing is more antithetical to family stability than requiring them to abandon that solemnized commitment.''

Part of a decision by Justice Lucy A. Billings of the New York State Supreme Court to dismiss a suit filed in June that claimed Governor David A Paterson overstepped his authority when he declared that his state would begin recognizing same-sex marriages that are performed in other states. It is reported that only the New York legislature can change the law to allow gay marriages to be performed within the state. (New York Times)